The Personal Injuries
Assessment Board
Since 21st July 2004, anyone
wishing to make a claim for damages for personal injuries (not resulting from
medical negligence) must apply in the first instance to the Personal Injuries
assessment Board (PIAB), rather than issue court proceedings. The application to PIAB must be made in the
proper form, and must be accompanied by certain documents, including a medical
report on the injuries suffered. Where
a defendant denies liability or where the claim is complex, the Plaintiff will
be authorized by the Board to issue court proceedings. A respondent who considers an award made against
him by the Board to be excessive may apply to allow the matter to be dealt with
by the Courts. The Law Society has
advised that those wishing to bring a claim for personal injuries should in the
first instance consult a solicitor.